Hold can 12-16″ from surface and spray in a steady back-and-forth motion, slightly overlapping each stroke. Keep the can the same distance from the surface and in motion while spraying. For best adhesion, apply 2 or 3 thin coats and allow each coat to dry for 2 minutes before applying the next coat.

Can you paint directly over self-etching primer?

It is true that Self Etching Primer can be painted over, but you must follow the manufacturer’s instructions and top coat guide closely. As a general rule, Self Etching Primers need another coat of primer over them to fully seal them.

When should you use self-etching primer?

After you remove the rust scales from the metal on your car, you need to apply self etching primer. It’s a mix of phosphoric acid and zinc. The way it works is that the acid forces the zinc into the top of the metal. It’s purely a surface coating, and it doesn’t stop the rust.

What’s the difference between primer and etch primer?

A zinc-rich primer should be used as part of a heavy-duty, high build, two-pack system. Etch primers work by acid etching the metal surface. Whilst the etch primer should be sprayed to ensure a thin, even film, the topcoat can be brushed.

Does etch primer need to be sanded?

Sanding the self-etching primer is not recommended by most manufacturers, as it is based on acid. As a reminder, self-etching primer is primarily an acid base with pigments added, so you should wear a mask when applying it.

Do you have to prime over etch primer?

As a rule of thumb Self Etching Primers need another coat of primer over them to fully seal everything up long term. We suggest using a Urethane Primer over the self etching primer as a barrier between the self etching primer (Do not use Epoxy over Self Etch).

How long after etching primer Can you paint?

Most primers should sit on a car for around 24 hours before applying the base coat of paint. Some primers may dry in as little as 30 minutes, but experts say to apply the primer 24 hours before painting for the best results.

Can I use etch primer over body filler?

Yes. You can apply self etch over fully cured filler.

Can you spray etch primer over etch primer?

A etch primer cannot be painted directly over. Surfacers and other primer/sealers are required to apply it. I have used semigloss black spray paint directly over etching primer before without any problems.

What do you put on bare metal before primer?

To properly prepare new metal surfaces, use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust-inhibitive primer before painting. For painted surfaces that are in sound condition, remove dust with a clean, dry cloth, de-gloss the surface with light sanding, and wipe with mineral spirits to ensure good adhesion.